The Convict and The Compass

Colonial history is full of heavy weight names like Oxley, Hume and Mitchell. Peter Bradley brings us the untold story of one of the more interesting and humble characters who shaped the development of NSW and Tasmania: James Meehan.

Sentenced at 26 years old for his role in an uprising against British rule in Ireland, James Meehan arrived in Australia in 1800 as a servant to English explorer Charles Grimes. 

Through talent and diligence, he rose to Acting Surveyor General of the young colony, working for five governors from 1800 to 1822. Meehan was instrumental in mapping the Sydney environs and planning the town’s layout, as well as early expeditions to the Hunter Valley, Port Phillip Bay, King Island and Tasmania. 

Kings and governors respected him and he played a crucial role in establishing Australia’s first Roman Catholic place of worship, St Mary’s Church. However, Meehan is a forgotten man in Australian historical writing. The story of how this Irish political prisoner became a fine explorer, conscientious surveyor and excellent busman, is at the heart of Peter Bradley’s thoroughly researched historical non-fiction.

About the author

Peter Bradley is a passionate historian whose interest in family history began when he discovered his great-grandfather's first-hand account of surviving a shipwreck. After a career in finance, Peter's passion lies in uncovering the past, and bringing to light his ancestor's remarkable legacy. His first book, Convicted, is an engrossing and highly imaginative retelling of the story of a father, son and grandson, entwined with the history of Australia from the landing of the First Fleeting in 1788.

Peter Bradley
Published October 2025
Hardback
592 pages 
230 mm x 150 mm
ISBN 9781920727420